Green-Synthesized Graphene Based TiO₂ Nanocomposite with High Photocatalytic Efficiency for Water Purification

Document Type : Original Research Paper

Authors

1 University of Birjand

2 Department of Landscape Design Engineering, Faculty of Geography and Environmental Planning, University of Sistan & Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran

3 Department of Environment, Faculty of Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment, Birjand University, Birjand, Iran

10.22111/cnmst.2026.54358.1271

Abstract

In this study, a walnut shell-derived Graphene based TiO₂ nanocomposite was successfully synthesized and applied for the photocatalytic degradation of Reactive Red 198 dye in aqueous solutions. The nanocomposite was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), confirming its crystalline structure, high surface area, and effective functionalization. The effects of catalyst dose, H₂O₂ concentration, reaction time, and initial pH on dye removal efficiency were systematically investigated using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The results indicated that the optimal conditions acidic pH, higher catalyst dosage, sufficient H₂O₂ concentration, and prolonged reaction time achieved the maximum dye removal efficiency of 83%. Numerical optimization and RSM modeling provided reliable predictions of process performance, demonstrating the potential of this green, biomass-derived nanocomposite as an efficient and sustainable photocatalyst for wastewater treatment.Numerical optimization and RSM modeling provided reliable predictions of process performance, demonstrating the potential of this green, biomass-derived nanocomposite as an efficient and sustainable photocatalyst for wastewater treatment.

Keywords


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